A Limestone Coast police officer known for being there for his community both on and off duty has been crowned South Australia’s 2026 Police Officer of the Year.
Brevet Sergeant Nigel Luders, Officer in Charge at Kingston SE Police Station, received the annual honour in recognition of his leadership, community involvement and more than two decades of service with South Australia Police.
Presented by the Rotary Club of Unley in partnership with SAPOL, the award recognises officers who have made a significant impact on the safety and wellbeing of the communities they serve.
In Kingston, Nigel has become much more than a familiar face in uniform.
Alongside leading responses to serious crashes, bushfires, marine rescues and other major incidents, he has built close relationships with local schools, sporting clubs, community organisations and council.
He has also recently begun training as a volunteer Ambulance Officer, extending his community service beyond his policing role.
“Being a part of the community and getting involved is a key component… just being there when people need you even out of work time,” Nigel said.
His SAPOL career began in 2004 and has taken him through Holden Hill, Para Hills, Golden Grove, Elizabeth, Berri and Renmark before he became Officer in Charge at Kingston SE.
For eight years, he has also worked as a post trainer, helping mentor and develop police officers across the Limestone Coast.
Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens said Nigel had consistently shown professionalism and compassion throughout his 22-year career.
“His leadership during critical incidents, his dedication to mentoring others and his strong community partnerships reflect the exemplary qualities recognised through this award,” Commissioner Stevens said.
Nigel’s work within Kingston also includes engagement with Kingston Community School and involvement with local sporting clubs, the Lions Club, National Trust and Kingston District Council.
He played a significant role in the 18-month planning and delivery of the Mounted Constable Harry Pearce memorial, which recognises the police officer who was killed in the line of duty near Kingston in 1881.
For Nigel, the honour comes back to the reason he joined the force in the first place.
“Understanding why I joined the police force in the first place and making an impact to help others within the community makes me content,” he said.
The 2026 Police Officer of the Year award was presented at the Royal Adelaide Show by Rotary Club of Unley President David Middleton, District 9510 Governor Tim Mee and Commissioner Stevens.
David described Nigel as a dedicated officer whose contribution reflected the impact police can have well beyond day-to-day policing.
Nigel joins a long list of South Australian officers recognised through the annual award for their service to communities across the state.
